Prince Harry Applauds Parents Caring for Their Sick Children During the Coronavirus

Prince Harry joined a video conference call with parents and members of his charity WellChild, discussing the complex challenges many families are facing during the COVID-19 crisis, from social isolation to accessing supplies, and the medical support those caring for sick children are in need of.

“Full respect to every single one of you. This is hard on everyone, but it is especially hard on you. I know that WellChild are doing everything they can to support you” the Duke of Sussex said.

Prince Harry, who is adjusting to life in isolation with Meghan noted the challenge of “having one kid, an eleven month old” saying “it’s a whole different ballgame when you have kids,” praising those caring for seriously ill children or "super parents,” as he said.

“The resilience and strength you guys have is absolutely incredible and you must never, ever, ever forget that. Of course there are going to be hard days but I can’t even begin to imagine how hard it is for you.” The Duke of Sussex said thanking the parents for their devotion.

Prince Harry’s conversation took place over the Easter weekend with the CEO of WellChild Colin Dyer, a WellChild Nurse and two parents trying to cope through the crisis. It was the first time Harry, dressed in a casual blue polo short, had been seen since he and Meghan stepped down as senior Royals on March 31st.

Prince Harry on a video conference call with his charity, WellChild

When asked how he was, Harry shared, "I’m not too bad. I think it’s suddenly strange times, everyone is suddenly experiencing the same thing in a very unique way," but in a sober moment he said the challenges were even greater for families dealing with high risk and vulnerable children. "The longer this goes on for, the harder this is for each and everyone one of you."

When Harry asked what people could do to show their support to families in duress, Dyer said, "Families need us more than ever," adding, "basic supplies are needed, from food, to cleaning products. A lot of families are finding it difficult getting themselves included on 'vulnerable lists.'"

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex may have relocated but they are still wholeheartedly committed to their charities. Prince Harry, who has been patron of WellChild since 2007, attended their awards ceremony in October to pay tribute to the children who show exceptional bravery despite their illnesses.

2019 Well Child Awards

WPA PoolGetty Images

During the ceremony, Harry made a moving speech. “My wife and I feel incredibly privileged to join you tonight, to be in a room with such amazing human beings,” he said. “This year resonates in different ways because I’m a father."

He added that the previous year, when they first attended as a couple, they knew they were pregnant, but no one else did. "I remember squeezing Meghan's hand so tight, and wondering what it would be like to have a child born with such immediate challenges. Being around these parents pulls at my heartstrings,” Prince Harry reflected. “In a way I could have never understood before I was a parent myself.”

The couple who have been isolating themselves with Baby Archie in California have been working behind the scenes, taking part in meetings as they begin in the process of formulating their new non-profit which will be named Archewell.

In a poignant moment on the video call, The Duke of Sussex encouraged the children to stay hopeful and focused on their future. “It is really nice to see you all smiling and happy. Keep going, keep the morale up, keep busy, keep being creative, dare yourself to try new hobbies and I hope to see you all again very, very soon!”

The Duke of Sussex also shared that there have been benefits being at home with his wife and son. “Having so much family time...you’ve got to celebrate those moments where you are just on the floor rolling around in hysterics."

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